Rap music has a long history of innovation and creativity. One fascinating aspect of this genre is the art of covering songs. A rap cover is when an artist reinterprets an existing song, adding their unique twist while honoring the original. This process often involves changing lyrics, incorporating different beats, and bringing new perspectives to well-loved tracks. In this article, we explore the 20 best rap covers, celebrating the diversity and talent in the rap community.
Top 20 Rap Covers Ever
1. “Changes” by 2Pac (Cover of Bruce Hornsby and the Range’s “The Way It Is”)
2Pac’s “Changes” is a poignant cover that addresses social issues, including racism and poverty. By using the melody of Bruce Hornsby and the Range’s “The Way It Is,” 2Pac created a timeless anthem that resonates with listeners across generations.
2. “Ice Ice Baby” by Vanilla Ice (Cover of Queen and David Bowie’s “Under Pressure”)
Vanilla Ice’s “Ice Ice Baby” is a classic rap cover that samples Queen and David Bowie’s “Under Pressure.” This track became an instant hit, showcasing Vanilla Ice’s catchy flow and the iconic bassline of the original song.
3. “Gangsta’s Paradise” by Coolio (Cover of Stevie Wonder’s “Pastime Paradise”)
Coolio’s “Gangsta’s Paradise” reimagines Stevie Wonder’s “Pastime Paradise” with a gritty, introspective twist. The cover explores the harsh realities of street life, making it a powerful and enduring piece in rap history.
4. “Ghetto Supastar (That Is What You Are)” by Pras featuring Ol’ Dirty Bastard and Mýa (Cover of Kenny Rogers and Dolly Parton’s “Islands in the Stream”)
This cover blends hip-hop with pop, creating a unique and catchy track. Pras, Ol’ Dirty Bastard, and Mýa deliver standout performances, transforming the country classic into a hip-hop anthem.
5. “Come with Me” by Puff Daddy featuring Jimmy Page (Cover of Led Zeppelin’s “Kashmir”)
Puff Daddy’s “Come with Me” is a bold reinterpretation of Led Zeppelin’s “Kashmir.” Featuring Jimmy Page on guitar, this cover blends rock and rap seamlessly, creating a powerful and dynamic track.
6. “The Man” by The Game (Cover of Aloe Blacc’s “The Man”)
The Game’s cover of Aloe Blacc’s “The Man” is a tribute to resilience and self-confidence. The rap version retains the motivational spirit of the original while adding The Game’s signature style and lyrical prowess.
7. “California Love” by 2Pac featuring Dr. Dre (Cover of Joe Cocker’s “Woman to Woman”)
“California Love” samples Joe Cocker’s “Woman to Woman” and transforms it into a West Coast anthem. 2Pac and Dr. Dre’s collaboration highlights their chemistry and the vibrant energy of California’s hip-hop scene.
8. “Doo Wop (That Thing)” by Lauryn Hill (Cover of Frankie Valli’s “Can’t Take My Eyes Off You”)
Lauryn Hill’s “Doo Wop (That Thing)” draws inspiration from Frankie Valli’s classic hit. Hill’s cover blends rap, soul, and R&B, showcasing her versatility and lyrical depth.
9. “Big Poppa” by The Notorious B.I.G. (Cover of The Isley Brothers’ “Between the Sheets”)
The Notorious B.I.G.’s “Big Poppa” samples The Isley Brothers’ “Between the Sheets.” This cover highlights Biggie’s smooth delivery and laid-back flow, making it a staple in hip-hop playlists.
10. “Stan” by Eminem featuring Dido (Cover of Dido’s “Thank You”)
Eminem’s “Stan” reinterprets Dido’s “Thank You” with a dark, narrative twist. The cover tells a gripping story of an obsessed fan, showcasing Eminem’s storytelling ability and emotional depth.
11. “I Got 5 on It” by Luniz (Cover of Club Nouveau’s “Why You Treat Me So Bad”)
Luniz’s “I Got 5 on It” samples Club Nouveau’s “Why You Treat Me So Bad.” This cover became an anthem for the West Coast rap scene, known for its catchy hook and laid-back vibe.
12. “Young, Wild & Free” by Snoop Dogg and Wiz Khalifa featuring Bruno Mars (Cover of The Joker’s “Young, Wild & Free”)
This cover of The Joker’s classic song features Snoop Dogg, Wiz Khalifa, and Bruno Mars. The rap version celebrates carefree living and youthful exuberance, making it a feel-good anthem.
13. “Work” by A$AP Ferg (Cover of A$AP Rocky’s “Work”)
A$AP Ferg’s cover of A$AP Rocky’s “Work” adds his unique flair to the original. The remix features a faster tempo and energetic delivery, showcasing Ferg’s distinct style and charisma.
14. “99 Problems” by Jay-Z (Cover of Ice-T’s “99 Problems”)
Jay-Z’s “99 Problems” is a reinterpretation of Ice-T’s original track. Jay-Z’s version addresses issues like racial profiling and personal struggles, making it a powerful and introspective cover.
15. “The Message” by Grandmaster Flash and the Furious Five (Cover of The Last Poets’ “When the Revolution Comes”)
Grandmaster Flash and the Furious Five’s “The Message” is a groundbreaking cover that highlights social issues and urban life. This track set the stage for conscious rap, influencing countless artists.
16. “No Diggity” by Blackstreet featuring Dr. Dre (Cover of Bill Withers’ “Grandma’s Hands”)
Blackstreet’s “No Diggity” samples Bill Withers’ “Grandma’s Hands,” transforming it into a smooth, R&B-infused rap hit. Dr. Dre’s production and Blackstreet’s harmonies make this cover unforgettable.
17. “Juicy” by The Notorious B.I.G. (Cover of Mtume’s “Juicy Fruit”)
The Notorious B.I.G.’s “Juicy” samples Mtume’s “Juicy Fruit,” creating a nostalgic and celebratory track. Biggie’s autobiographical lyrics and smooth flow make this cover a hip-hop classic.
18. “C.R.E.A.M.” by Wu-Tang Clan (Cover of The Charmels’ “As Long as I’ve Got You”)
Wu-Tang Clan’s “C.R.E.A.M.” samples The Charmels’ “As Long as I’ve Got You.” This cover became an anthem for the group’s gritty, streetwise style, highlighting their lyrical prowess and storytelling.
19. “Dear Mama” by 2Pac (Cover of The Spinners’ “Sadie”)
2Pac’s “Dear Mama” reinterprets The Spinners’ “Sadie,” paying tribute to his mother. This heartfelt cover showcases 2Pac’s emotional depth and ability to connect with listeners on a personal level.
20. “Old Town Road” by Lil Nas X (Cover of Nine Inch Nails’ “34 Ghosts IV”)
Lil Nas X’s “Old Town Road” samples Nine Inch Nails’ “34 Ghosts IV,” creating a genre-blending hit. This cover became a cultural phenomenon, highlighting the power of innovation and crossover appeal in rap music.
See Also: A Deep Dive into Crunk: History, Artists, and Impact
Conclusion
Rap covers demonstrate the genre’s versatility and ability to transcend boundaries. These 20 tracks showcase how rap artists can take inspiration from various sources, reimagining songs in unique and powerful ways. Whether by addressing social issues, celebrating personal experiences, or blending genres, these rap covers have left an indelible mark on music history. They remind us of the creativity and talent that define the rap community, continually pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in music.
